Srinagar: J&K’s religious leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday expressed deep concern over the reported loss of lives in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The remarks came after over 20 people were reportedly killed in recent police action on protesters in several parts of PoK.
Mirwaiz said he was deeply disturbed by the news coming from across the Line of Control, and described the killings as extremely sad.
“Government there should know better than to use force to handle public grievance and demands in this manner,” said Mirwaiz. He further stated that “when people take to the streets to express their concerns, it is a signal that they seek to be heard”.
Mirwaiz said that “it is the responsibility of those in authority to listen, engage and peacefully resolve the matter, rather than allow it to escalate into violence, arbitrary arrests and loss of life”.
Mirwaiz expressed hope that “better sense prevails and the matter is handled with maturity while addressing the concerns of the people”.
